> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://smartbooks.gitbook.io/smartbooks-docs/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://smartbooks.gitbook.io/smartbooks-docs/reports-and-dashboards/report-configurator/tables/columns.md).

# Columns

## Adding Columns to Tables&#x20;

When you navigate to the column screen, you can add new items to your column sets. The interface offers different column types that can be mixed within the same report, such as:&#x20;

* Single Columns&#x20;
* Range Columns&#x20;
* Variance Columns&#x20;

### Defining Column Settings&#x20;

For each column, you must specify:&#x20;

* **View:** \
  Determines the time aggregation type (e.g., Periodic, YTD, or QTD).&#x20;
* **Year and Period:** \
  You can either hard-code specific values or use dynamic settings that adjust automatically based on the current period. Dynamic settings help ensure your reports remain current and support rolling forecasts.&#x20;
* **Category:** \
  Choose from options such as actuals, budget, forecast, or current year projections.&#x20;
* **Cost Center (if applicable):** \
  Specify the cost center when needed.&#x20;

Additionally, you can highlight a column to make it stand out visually.&#x20;

### Configuring Specific Column Types&#x20;

* **Range Columns:** \
  Define a start and end period by specifying a year-period combination for both the beginning and ending periods.&#x20;
* **Variance Columns:** \
  Choose a variance type (Absolute or Percentage) and define the base and reference periods. For example, to compare actuals versus budget, set the view to YTD, use the current year and period, designate the base category as "actual," and the reference category as "budget."&#x20;

### Dynamic Column Headers and Item Names&#x20;

Column headers can include dynamic placeholders for clarity and adaptability:&#x20;

* **{year}:** Inserts the year associated with the column data.&#x20;
* **{period.shortDescription}:** Displays the month or period.&#x20;
* **{category}:** Inserts the category (e.g., actuals or budget).&#x20;

Similarly, for column item names (the titles for column sets), you can use placeholders like {currentYear} to reference the current year or relative references such as {currentYear\[-1]} for the previous year.&#x20;